CAUGHT UP IN JESUS

"What we have seen and heard we proclaim in turn to you so that you may share life with us." —1 John 1:3

St. John's heart was abundantly filled with Jesus (see Jn 10:10). Accordingly, when John spoke, his words were about Jesus (see Lk 6:45). The Jewish Sanhedrin commanded John not "to speak the name of Jesus or teach about Him" (Acts 4:18). John responded that he surely couldn't help speaking about the Jesus that he had personally heard and seen (Acts 4:20).

This makes John a perfect Christmas saint. Unlike the many who missed the presence of the infant Jesus at the first Christmas, John was immersed in Jesus and was therefore quick to recognize the signs of His presence (see Jn 20:8; 21:7). John saw Jesus, heard Jesus, and touched Jesus (1 Jn 1:1). John had to be with Jesus, whether it was on the Mount of Transfiguration (Mk 9:2) or at the foot of the cross (Jn 19:26). No wonder John couldn't help speaking of Jesus.

For Christians, the Christmas season is just starting. We have another twelve days of Christmas until ordinary time begins. Let's rejoice with the true Christmas Spirit, the Holy Spirit. Like St. John, let's be abundantly filled with Jesus, the Word made Flesh (Jn 1:14), Emmanuel, God-with-us (Mt 1:23). Then let us proclaim Jesus to the world so that they may share life with us (1 Jn 1:3) and make our joy complete (1 Jn 1:4).

Prayer: Jesus, transform my senses to be totally attuned to You.

Promise: "Light dawns for the just; and gladness, for the upright of heart." —Ps 97:11

Praise: St. John received an abundance of Jesus' Spirit as he remained true to Him beneath His cross.

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)(Presentation Ministries offers a Lenten Retreat, Living in Reality, March 9-10, 2007. For information on this retreat, as well as information on how you can be immersed in God's word, the Sacraments and Christian community through these retreats, call 937-205-0128 or e-mailretreats@presentationministries.com)

Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2006 through January 31, 2007.†Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 13, 2006.

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